Mocha with Linda Says:
Too fun! I thought for sure that one little white-haired lady was going to go back and slide!
And yeah, I can see the lawsuits that Americans would come up with if we had one here!
Have fun in St. Louis! And at the Christy Awards!
Says:
Love it!!!
Says:
Love your candor ... you are such an inspiration! Clyde
Says:
Just so you know your books do make me cry like a baby. The Note for one. And they are always very good books.
Mocha with Linda Says:
You definitely had some Texas Panhandle fun! I've seen the Cadillac Ranch several times, but we've never stopped.
And The Big Texan! You did order the 72 oz steak and get your meal free when you finished it, didn't you?! :-)
Says:
Been there, done that back in November. The Cadillac Ranch is cool.
When we arrived at the Big Texan, we were seated by about 50 elementary kids adorned with cowboy hats banging on the tables. My first thought was, "Let's get out of here." Luck would have it, the school kids left soon.
We had the opportunity to watch a small guy down the 72 oz. steak, then ask for dessert.
Did you catch the rattle snake in the gift shop? I missed it somehow, probably would have "jumped out of my hide" if I had seen it.
Did you buy any of their fudge? It was to die for!
Says:
I smiled when I read this. I've had this phenomenon happen to me. It leaves me baffled, not to mention my husband. One day it suddenly came to me and I wrote it down in my journal so I wouldn't forget. I just had to write to let you know...lol.
Here's my theory. There are three different types of faucets and we each have one. There's the one that turns on and off at will. Plain as that! Then there's the one that needs a wrench or a hammer to get it started. Enough said. Lastly there's the leaky faucet. No matter of turning, twisting, taping or whacking can change what is happening. It's just gonna happen.
Don't know if this helps, but whenever it happens to me and my husband raises his eyebrow with a baffled look, I kindly remind him that it's ok to have a leaky faucet once-in-a-while!
Smiles ;)
Jen
Kristin Roberts Says:
The leaky faucet advice is incredible, I have to say.
And Angie, I think conferences like Glen Eyrie are extremely special. There was something about that place, about the combination of people, about the subject matter and the closeness of God's amazing creation that rendered me pretty helpless.
At the beginning of everything I thought to myself, "I'm going to cry a lot this week." I'm not normally a weeper, so I don't know why I thought it--but it became true. It took a really moving conversation with a very sweet person to finally open my floodgates, but once they were open I couldn't stop them. Every night I went back to my room and cried out to God--in happiness, sorrow, joy, and even frustration.
I guess I would qualify as the faucet that needs the wrench. I know now that I definitely needed to cry then. I think this has probably been a time for you to cry too.
I don't always realize when my emotions and feelings get built up. Maybe it's better for you to cry in little bits for a long while. Take it from me--crying in private vehemently is really exhausting.
Angela Says:
I like the leaky faucet analogy, too. And, truthfully, I have some deep-seated sorrows that have a way of bubbling to the surface when I least expect it . . . so maybe that's part of it. After all, the longer we live, the more joys AND sorrows we collect, hmmm?
But I love that psalm that says that God collects all our tears in a bottle. (Ps. 56:8). And when no one else understands--not even us--He does. :-)
Angie
Mocha with Linda Says:
I'm guessing hormones. I used to never cry, and as soon as I went through childbirth I cried like a baby over anything sad or sweet - including Hallmark commercials! LOL I've kinda leveled out and gone back to my pre-kids dryness. I wish there were a happy medium!
I do love that verse, and it's much better to be tender-hearted than unfeeling!
Kay Day Says:
I'm a cryer. I love a good cry. Even when it hurts, it's so cleansing. It gets out all the junk that I've kept crammed in for a while.
I do lots of mini-cries, but it's those big ones that get the job done.
I don't know what it's like to not be a feeler, so I'm not sure how the thinkers normally handle deep-seated sorrows. My hubby has the same personality profile you do, but he's a man, so I can't go by him.
My advice? Not that you asked-- set aside some time and let it out. Like Deborah did on Everybody Loves Raymond. She worked it into her schedule. :)
Says:
I have these moments, but I know mine are probably just hormones. Some days I have a love/hate relationship with them, if that makes any sense.
I did want to tell you about a scripture in the Bible about tears; Psalm 56:8--"You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?" I thought that was so amazing that God holds our tears in His bottle.
I heard this first from Bible/Historian Ray Vander Laan's teaching. Did you ever hear of Focus on the Family's series "That the World May Know" or Dr. Vander Laan's website "Follow the Rabbi?" He brings Jewish tradition to his Bible teaching.
I don't know if this brings any help, but I pray in some small way it does.
Miriam (fb friend)
Says:
Oh, yes, Angie, I see your comment about the psalm.
NOTE to Self: Be sure you read all comments first, LOL ;)
Miriam
Says:
My husband and I get a great laugh out of that episode of "Everybody Loves Raymond"! We watch it regularly for good laugh(or cry)...lol
I SO love Psalm 56:8. I reflect on this "tear" thing occasionally because I see it affects all of us so differently. I've began affectionately calling God my "Tear Accountant".
This "leaky faucet" syndrome is something I would love to write about. I have so many other thing I have written in my journals about this subject! lol.
Says:
It could be hormones. It could also be that you are tired and don't realize it. Between all the traveling, teaching and painting you've been doing and the stress of trying to sell your house in my humble opinion you should be exhausted. Sounds like it is time for another cruise with lots of time in the lounge chairs relaxing.
Larry and Liz Says:
I don't ever know whether to blame hormones or medication or what. BUT sometimes (recently) I will just be sitting alone, and a movie will come to mind, and I will cry all over again. WITHOUT SEEING ANYTHING. No wonder men have a hard time understanding us. Thankfully, God does. We are fearfully and wonderfully made - interestingly, too, don't you think?
Says:
I cried all the way through "Lars" too. Thought I was the only one.
Suzanne Says:
I've been crying a lot lately too. I think mine is due to exhaustion. I'm not normally one to cry at the drop of a hat.
Says:
Often, just being in the presence of the Lord will bring tears to me It seems like it is deep sorrow and great joy mixed together. I just feel so loved by Him at those moments. It would be hard to really explain that to anyone.
Linda
Who says a woman can’t keep a secret?
It's 1918, and Daphne McKinley, heiress to a small fortune, has found contentment in the town of Bethlehem Springs. But Daphne has a secret.
A series of dime novels loosely based on local lore and featuring a nefarious villain known as Rawhide Rick has enjoyed modest popularity among readers. Nobody in Bethlehem Springs knows the man behind the stories … except Daphne.
When newspaperman Joshua Crawford comes to town searching for the man who sullied the good name of his grandfather, Daphne finds herself at a crossroads, reassessing the power of her words, re-thinking how best to honor her gifts, and reconsidering what she wants out of life.
Says:
The first two books in this series were delightful. Looking forward to reading this one.
Mocha with Linda Says:
That's funny. The faces are cool, but I am relieved to discover I'm not the only one who "sees" faces in objects. LOL
Says:
My wife's cousin bought a car one time because the headlights popped up on the front and made a face!
Says:
I, too, looked for faces in car and truck fronts. And I can NOT plug in an appliance without thinking the receptacle looks like a horrified face. Thanks for the fun link, Angie.
Blessings,
Mary Kay
Says:
Never saw the faces til you pointed it out. Now that's all I see! LOL
hoogster Says:
great stuff angie..
My youngest son went to iceland for 10 days with a buddy and had an amazing time..
he is already planning a return trip..
Mocha with Linda Says:
LOL - I had to go look at some info for Iceland and come back and share. The highest average temp in the summer is 57 degrees! And average sunlight hours in Iceland range between 0.3 hours per day in December and 6.1 hours per day in June.
Brrr and yawn! :-)
Says:
I have wanted to visit Iceland after seeing parts of in one season on "The Amazing Race". It was beautiful.
Maybe someday on a cruise.
Kay Day Says:
I think it would be fabulous. Plus, you get to dance weird. I don't want to wear leggings, though.
Ruthie Says:
What a beautiful place! How cool (sorry for the pun) it would be to visit there! Ah, well. It will only be in my dreams............
Gene Says:
I love watching Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" on the Travel Channel. One of his episodes was in Iceland and I've been wanting to go there ever since. It is considered one of the happiest countries in the world.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/07/02/nations.happiness/index.html
PS - The video looks like it's been removed.
Says:
When I was a child, we had a pure white, long-haired cat, Puff, who would relentlessly clean only the black markings on Tipsy, our B/W cocker spaniel. Cute video! Clyde
Sara E. James Says:
Angie, there's a part two! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rskRAuxZTHY&feature=related
Leslie Says:
Well substitute the gray cat with a black one and the Boston Terrier with a Terrier - mix and you've got my dog and cat.
People don't believe me - they are so fun to watch.
The trick was to bring them home on the same day - the dog was still a puppy and the cat was either used to dogs or its because she's so laid back that she just accepted the puppy.
One time when the puppy was still really young the cat apparently realized that the food bowel was too far away and she nudged the food bowl all the way to the puppy - so the puppy could eat.
Or when I'd lock the puppy in the bathroom because I'd be gone all day (and she couldn't be allowed to roam the house) I'd come home to find the cat guarding the bathroom door....
Says:
I have been using the massive tote for quite a while now ... It's probably what did in my back alignment ... but it seems to make it through TSA without too much fuss. Speaking of TSA, I wonder whether they would be as diligent in twisting the ties back for you. Anyway, I'm happy you are enjoying Texas this week. Wish you were closer to San Antonio! Clyde
karenp Says:
I like the twist tie idea. If you carry a little pair of wire snippers in your carry on, you can just cut them when you reach your destination. And use fresh ones for the return trip home.
It should keep you safe with TSA staff too who might be tempted. A friend used to say TSA stood for Take Scissors Away...so they won't be able to cut the twist ties :-)
Mocha with Linda Says:
I'm sorry you had such a frustrating trip. There are so many restrictions and rules now when flying. It's too bad that protection from terrorists means no protection from sticky-fingered airline employees!
Says:
Maybe you should just bring Gary along to help carry everything :)
Says:
I'm with you, Sis! Not only do you need to be like a pack mule, but if you decide to go to the ladies room, you may not find a seat when you return! I've found Linda G's idea the best. Unfortunately for me, dear hubby hates flying. (More accurately, hates the hassle, waiting, and crowds. He loves the flying.)
Hubby has used the twist ties for years. I thought he was just being "frugal" and paranoid. Silly me. He's just brilliant. For the most part they've worked. But I have had orthotics and a spray can of Static Guard lifted. Lovely for those winter conferences! I bet TSA might just take the wire clippers, too.
It seems beyond comprehension that in following the rules, we are defenseless targets (except for twist ties!) for thieves.
Hope you enjoy your conference in spite of...
Blessings,
Mary Kay
Leslie Says:
I just realized - your home owners insurance should cover the cost of the camera (depending on your deductible).
I know my renters insurance says it would (depending on the deductible)
Says:
Twist ties sound like a good idea. I tie the two zippers on my suitcase together with wrapping ribbons (the ribbons you use to decorate presents) and tie a gazillion knots in them. When I've done this, no one has tried to cut them off. I'm so sorry that you're camera was stolen!
1-What caused you to choose early Texas as the setting for your "Texas Star of Destiny" series?
I enjoy writing about locales and periods where several groups come together for a sharp culture clash. Conflict is the essence of a good story and many different people trying to get along or not get along sets up a story rife with natural conflict.
Starting in 1821 Stephen Austin brought in Anglo-Americans to settle Spanish and the Mexican-held Texas. Eastern Texas became the setting where Native Americans, mainly Comanche, Mexicans, and blacks (slaves and runaways), and Anglos clashed over who would be in control of the land. Part of my brand, "Strong Women Brave Stories" is that I like to write a multicultural cast. In this third and final book in the series, I stir German immigrants into the mix.
2-How do you handle the 19th century political incorrectness?
I resist the pressure to sanitize history. If I portray the 19th century as it really was, it is difficult not to offend the 21st century reader. Yet I still endeavor to portray the low status of women and racial prejudice of the 19th century. I had a reader say in a review that my stories had 21st century values. That's not really correct. My stories have characters who are at odds with their times, another characteristic common to my historicals. My heroines are usually crusaders far ahead of their times who won't cave in to the pressure to conform (another source of conflict). I don't like historical novels that don't even try to show how society was different in the past.
3-What was the most interesting fact you didn't know about Texas BEFORE you started writing this series?
I hadn't realized that over 30,000 Germans immigrated to Texas in the mid-1840's. The area around New Braunfels, Texas, still celebrates this German heritage with some original stone houses, German food and polka bands—really!
4-What do you hope your readers will take away after reading this book and the first two in the series?
Her Abundant Joy features a German widow Mariel Wolffe. She is a heroine who will tug at a reader's heart (I hope!) And her hero, Carson Quinn, the son of the hero and heroine in the first book, is a man that should melt hearts. He's not just a handsome face. He has faced frontier life and learned to survive with honor, no small accomplishment.
They find themselves--just as we do today in the face of terrorism--in the middle of a war. Their personal desires and plans must give way to the winds of war. But God is still there with them. I gave my editor a choice of two titles taken from Psalm 37 (all 3 titles are). She chose Her Abundant Joy. The other was Her Man of Peace. I think that this reflects the theme of the book. Carson longs for peace but is forced into war.
The humble shall inherit the earth; and
shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace....
Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright:
for the end of that man is peace. Psalm 37: 11, 37
Enjoy!
~~Angie
Mocha with Linda Says:
Welcome to Texas! I was excited to see you were here until I read where in Texas you are. You're closer to Colorado than to me! LOL
If you get the chance, go to the musical Texas at Palo Duro Canyon that performs every night at dusk. It's wonderful!
Sounds like Lyn Cote has written another good book!
Says:
Love that series, and can't wait to read the 3rd one. :)
Amy
Lori Says:
I am wondering and just have to ask you. Are you helping Katie (Kisses from Katie) write a book? Can you tell? She wrote on her blog that she is writing a book and met with her publisher. You mentioned that you met her. I'm so curious.
*I hope you are as it could be a best seller. When I first heard about Katie I wondered why she wasn't on the Today show and Oprah.
Lori
Angela Says:
Yes, I did meet Katie (she's wonderful), but no, I'm not writing her book. Someone else is, though we do share the same publisher (Howard).
Hers is an amazing story!
Angie
Lyn Cote Says:
Angie,
Wish I was with you in Texas. I love Texans! Both my dads were Texans-one west and one east!
Says:
Without God, we are nothing. We used to know that. America was founded on that premise. I have read several times this past week that it is not that we HAVE elected officials who do not believe this any more, but that we have actually ELECTED them to govern us. Without God, the bold, exciting experiment called AMERICA will no longer be able to stand. Wake up, America! Clyde
doublecousins.net Says:
What fun. I've been to Hungary several times and it took me right back. They do like their dogs and they like them BIG! Wonderful way to start the day. Thanks. :)
Mocha with Linda Says:
Love it!
But I'll never hear "Budapest" and "Hungary" without thinking of that country singer on Are You Smarter Than a Fifth-Grader? -- the one who had never heard of Hungary. "I've heard of Turkey, but not Hungary."
Diana Says:
Angie;
What a fun way to head into my weekend! Thanks for the lift and smiles! This was amazing.
Says:
I absolutely adore cats, but you'll never see them having this much fun. LOVED it! Clyde
Marcia Says:
It was great to see you again Angie and thanks so much for all you did at GE. It was a truly wonderful time for all of us Canucks! :)
darien Says:
I showed this to my husband...he loved it. He was most amused that if you type in something, the results screen reacts to gravity too. Thanks!
And yeah, what Marcia said!
Mocha with Linda Says:
Wow - I'm so sorry about your camera.
And what a clever guy to catch the thief of his camera!
Says:
Have a great time, Angie. My prayers are with all you writers --teachers and learners. (Wish I was with you in actuality, too!)
Hi to Nancy, and JSB, and Kathy, and Kay, Jackie, Evelyn, Rachel, Bree, Kevin, Angie, Kerry, Francine, Linda, Cheryl ... and the Scotsman Cowboy! Be diligent, writers. We need more good books!
Blessings,
Mary Kay
Mocha with Linda Says:
I bet my girl would enjoy that movie. That's one of her favorite time periods to read about or watch.
Says:
Angie, funny you should say that - i'm also in a WW2 mood these days in my reading. I just finished a wonderful book called All the Way Home, by Ann Tatlock - it's about a young girl who befriends a Japanese-American family, who then get sent to an internment camp after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It's a thought-provoking story given today's issues regarding racial profiling. I downloaded the audio version from Audible on my Ipod - wonderfully narrated!
Says:
There are some who believe that the USA will become like Germany in the future. God may be preparing your heart....
Born Valentine's Day on a naval base, Cheryl Wyatt writes military romance. Her Steeple Hill debuts earned RT Top Picks plus #1 and #4 on eHarlequin's Top 10 Most-Blogged-
Mocha with Linda Says:
Looks like a great book.
Now I figured out why I've been missing some of your posts. My sidebar isn't updating, for some reason. It still shows yesterday as being the most recent post. Arggh!
Julie Jarnagin Says:
Interesting! I guess it makes sense. I wonder how much the textbooks cost electronically.
Kay Day Says:
If this had existed in college, I wouldn't have got tendonitis from all those nursing books!
Ruthie Says:
I missed 2 questions...guess I was colored by the higher unemployment rate here rather than the U.S. average. Oh well. I discovered I'm not as ignorant as I originally thought! LOL
Says:
I did miserably...but my excuse is being from Canada and not knowing the US political info. :-(
Says:
WAHOO, I got them all right ... being a news junkie pays off! Clyde
Kay Says:
I don't watch the news and it shows. Even if I did, I wouldn't have retained a lot of that info anyway. The Dow Jones? I wouldn't remember that even if I knew.
So... I'm not saying my score. :)
Mocha with Linda Says:
Woohoo - I got 9 right - which isn't tremendous, but it's still much better than almost 80% of the rest of the population.
I don't know how I missed this post yesterday.
Bev Nault Says:
Thanks for posting this, very important we all keep abreast. And thanks for mentioning Miss America (the "A"cademic pageant), the young women from all walks of life who understand politics and culture, not to be confused with Miss USA contestants, who are set up for scandal and ridicule. Thanks, Angela!
Bev Nault Says:
Thanks for posting this, very important we all keep abreast. And thanks for mentioning Miss America (the "A"cademic pageant), the young women from all walks of life who understand politics and culture, not to be confused with Miss USA contestants, who are set up for scandal and ridicule. Thanks, Angela!
In no particular order, Angela Hunt is a novelist, teacher, nana, mother, wife, mastiff owner, reader, musician, student, aspiring theologian, and bubble gum connoisseur. The things that enter her life sooner or later find their way into her books, hence "a life in pages."
That song is one of my all-time favorites ... coupled with this spectacular water display, it's a fabulous way to start the day! The engineers in Dubai certainly have a way with buildings and fountains, don't they? Clyde
That is beautiful. And I had never heard this song.
While I watched I kept thinking of the video of the water drops you posted the other day!
Ditto my comment from tomorrow. (huh?)
Stunningly beautiful. Love that song--and those two singing it. The fountain portrays the images I get in my head when I try to turn music into a visual. I think I'll watch again right before I go to sleep.
Many thanks, Angie.
Blessings,
Mary Kay
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